Pray for Cuba’s Political Future

Several news outlets have reported the death of Fidel Castro at 90 years of age on Nov 25. What will this mean for the Church in Cuba? The short answer is that we don’t know. In the short run, not much is expected to change for believers. Since 2008, Cuba has been led by Raúl Castro, Fidel’s brother, who has essentially continued his policies. Under Raúl Castro’s leadership, the political situation is not likely to change in the foreseeable future.

There are, however, three key elements to watch in Cuba:

· The foreign policy priorities of the U.S. President-elect Trump,

· The medium-term impact of Fidel Castro’s death, and

· The 2018 presidential elections in Cuba, which, of course, are not expected to be free but could nevertheless lead to changes.

We will closely monitor the situation on the ground in Cuba. Please pray for the political future of Cuba.

Father God, ruler over all the nations, we pray to You today on behalf of the people of Cuba in the wake of the death of Fidel Castro. We pray for the Christians, that they will know greater freedom in the weeks and months to come, and that in whatever circumstances befall them, they will continue to serve You faithfully. We pray for those who do not know You, that the gospel of Christ will be spread across the land in great power, that many might turn to You in faith. We pray for Raúl Castro and others in leadership, that You will soften their hearts toward Christ that they might lead their people with godly wisdom and care. We do not know the future of Cuba, but You do, and so we lean on Your holy, gracious, and sovereign will as we look toward the future. In the name of Jesus who reigns over the nations and their rulers. Amen.